PRESS STATEMENT

Fondazzjoni Wirt Artna (FWA) is publishing a video capturing one of the numerous instances when the historic WWII Combined War Headquarters tunnels in Valletta were flooded by storm and irrigation water leaking from the Upper Barrakka Gardens between 2009 and 2026.

This video is being made public for the first time now that FWA is no longer barred from doing so following the conclusion of a lengthy legal case.

The repeated entry of water into this historic complex—parts of which date back to 1570, 1640, and 1715, alongside its wartime role as the main command centre (1940–43) for Malta's defence—destroyed or irreparably damaged large sections of the site. This damage made its long-term restoration and management by FWA exceptionally difficult, leaving some areas permanently lost.

The Combined War HQ Tunnels are a Grade 1 scheduled historic monument and form part of the Valletta UNESCO World Heritage site.

In total, over 28 complex water leaks had to be tackled. Following close cooperation with Ambjent Malta and other public authorities, every single leak point has now been resolved using various methods. This included tanking to waterproof several planters in the garden, including one currently being worked on. In every instance, Ambjent Malta made every effort to save existing trees, especially old, long-established ones. Five planters were successfully treated using this method without the death or destruction of a tree. FWA is grateful for the cooperation received and the successful outcome.

This information is being published to clarify the nature of the ongoing works at the Upper Barrakka Gardens, which may have caused unnecessary concern to passersby. As a result of this crucial intervention, the ancient tunnels have finally been rendered waterproof, saving this historic landmark for posterity and future generations.